Family Traditions

November, 1989

Words of Wisdom to a newly married son or daughter:

I always try to suggest the importance of establishing their own family traditions.              A set of habits which will provide a warmth of memories in the hearts of their new family.

Here let me recall some of the traditions from our Martini family treasure chest. Birthday celebrations and special memorable parties are a natural. As are religious holy days.    For example, all my children were baptized in my christening dress. Now my daughter, Barbara, has used it for her three children. Her daughter Laura made her First Communion in the white dress used by her mother at her first communion The wedding dress is waiting. 

One of our Christmas traditions is not to place “baby Jesus” in the creche until Christmas day, then the tiniest toddler has this privilege. At family and relative get-togethers cousins always produced a play as part of the festivities.  Sometimes the nativity story or the Flight into Egypt at Christmas time. Other seasons might be a take off on “Queen for a Day” or a talent show.  This tradition has been continued by the grandchildren. Easter egg hunts are always a happy party activity. (My family remembers when the Mayfair Market used to have a hunt in the store!)

With such a large family, it became important to do something special with just one child.  I was ‘reminded by my daughter Barbara of the time I took her to lunch at the Biltmore Hotel and then to see her first Broadway -type musical. I was pleasantly surprised to learn that she had taken her 10 year old to lunch and the musical “Annie” at the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion. “Just like we did, Mom.”

I began giving my grandchildren Advent Calendars (4 weeks before Christmas). One year I forgot to buy them and was definitely reminded of my neglect.

As the children grew into young adults, we started a new tradition.   Mike and I would create a Thanksgiving invitation. It was fun for us and looked forward to by the family.

I almost forgot the Palisades “famous” Fourth of July race and parade.   If at all possible, I notice the neighborhood children, mine included, now gather to renew childhood friendships. It’s a must for the second generation also.

These are but a few suggestions. The door is wide open for your new family to achieve lasting, inherited memories.  Real Traditions.